1996 Peugeot 306 vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1996 Peugeot 306 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Peugeot 306 (90 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Peugeot 306 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Peugeot 306 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1978 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Chrysler 1609 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Peugeot 306, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Peugeot 306 (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Peugeot 306 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609. 1978 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 1996 Peugeot 306 has manual transmission. 1996 Peugeot 306 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Peugeot 306 | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Chrysler |
| Model | 306 | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2670 mm |
